ForThe A3 Saloon is the What Car? Best Executive Car 2014 and offers a blend of refinement and quality that you would expect only to be available to those with bigger budgets.

Our recommendation is the 2.0-litre TDI engine, being one the most refined four-cylinder diesel engines on the market. It also provides brisk progress from anywhere in the rev-range combined with economy and emissions that are among the best in class, averaging 70.6mpg and emitting 105g/km of CO2.

The high-grade cabin materials and switch gear are complimented by an easy-to-navigate infotainment system, despite which the A3 saloon is cheaper than rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes CLA.

AgainstThe ride is too hard with the standard sport suspension set-up and too much road noise lets down an otherwise quiet cabin.

Although the boot is a decent size, the A3 Saloon’s styling means that access is limited through a narrow opening and the rear seats are not as spacious as those in the BMW 3 Series.

Should I add any options?The most important option, which is to remove the sports suspension and go for the smoother-riding standard set-up, is free.

Other noteworthy options are LED headlights, satellite-navigation – of which two versions are available – active lane assist, a panoramic glass sunroof and Audi pre-sense, which recognises if a crash is imminent and optimises various systems for increased occupant safety.

What next?To take advantage of today’s deal, head to Coast2coastcars.co.uk and select the Audi A3 Saloon from the menus.